A William and Mary walnut and floral marquetry longcase clock of one month durationJohn Wise, London, circa 1690The four finned pillar bell striking movement with plates measuring 7.25 by 5.125 inches, high position external countwheel, and separately cocked pallet arbor for the anchor escapement regulated by seconds period pendulum, the 11 inch square brass dial with subsidiary seconds dial, ringed winding holes and folate scroll border engraved calendar aperture to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised fleur-de-lys half hour markers, Arabic five minutes to outer track and signed John Wise, London to lower margin, with pierced blued steel hands and mask and scroll cast spandrels to angles, the case with moulded cornice and scroll pierced frieze to lintel, over leafy trail inlaid fixed glazed dial surround, the sides with rectangular windows and bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with convex walnut veneered throat moulding over 41.5 inch rectangular door centred with an oval lenticle and with three shaped marquetry panels decorated with bird inhabited floral sprays and scrolling foliage on an ebonised ground within a figured walnut field, the sides veneered with twin panels within mitred borders, the base with stepped ogee top moulding and conforming rectangular marquetry panel over moulded skirt, 203cm (80ins) high. John Wise senior is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as born in Banbury, Oxfordshire in 1624 and apprenticed to Peter Closon through Thomas Dawson in 1638, gaining his Freedom in October 1646. He apparently lived in Warwick 1653-68 where he repaired the clocks at St. Nicholas and St. Mary`s churches, the latter providing the venue for the baptism of three of his children. He moved back to London in 1669 where he was re-admitted to the Clockmakers` Company by redemption. He took many apprentices including no less than six of his sons; Richard (Free 1679), John (Free 1683), Thomas (Free 1686), Joseph (Free 1687), Peter (Free 1693) and Luke (Free 1694). He worked from 'neer the Popeshead in Moorfields' and was recorded as a recusant in 1682/3. John Wise senior died in 1690 and was buried at St. Andrew's, Holborn.Condition Report: The movement is complete and in relatively clean working condition although a gentle clean/service is advised and some historic pinion/wheel tooth wear is evident . There is no evidence of alteration to the mechanism and service replacements appear limited to the escape wheel and pallets. The warning wheel of the strike train has a collet differing in pattern to the others hence has probably been repinioned and both the pendulum suspension and pallet arbor cocks have also been repaired. Otherwise movement appears to be in fine original condition with the only spare holes being that for a movement securing bracket to the top edge of the backplate (there is a corresponding hole in the case backboard). The dial is also in relatively clean condition and free from major faults although the spandrels and hands appear to be 18th century replacements. The chapter ring has a light patch of tarnishing between the II and III numerals otherwise is finishes present as nice and even throughout.The movement retains its original seatboard which rests directly onto the original cheeks (uprights) in the case. Although there has been some slight historic adjustment (trimming down) of the cheeks which is most likely counter for slight shrinkage/movement in the structure of the case (rather than being evidence of the movement and dial being 'married' to the case) hence we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are original to the case. The hood is in sound condition with the front never having being cut for a door and the rear internal edges retaining the grooves for the rising action (although the corresponding tongues to the backboard are no longer present). The hood is now removed by sliding forward. The cornice top mouldings are replacements as is the fret to the frieze. There no hood columns present and there is some historic worm damage/wear to the veneers around the hood side windows. The rear left hand lower lip is also lacking a small run of half-round moulding. The trunk is generally sound with faults limited to slight shrinkage, wear and other relatively light age related faults. The trunk door hinges are replacements and there is a slip of timber inserted to the full height rear edge of the door panel at the hinge side probably to ensure later hinges had sound timber to attach to. the door key that comes with the clock does not appear to operate the trunk door lock. The marquetry and ebonised veneer to the lower edge of the trunk door have also been restored at some point in the past.The lower half of the base has been restored with replacement marquetry cut and applied broadly in the flavour of the original but not to executed to the same standard. The base side veneers are replacements and the skirting is a later addition. The backboard of the case is in sound condition and continues down to a level commensurate with the upper edge of the restored marquetry on the plinth. Clock has pendulum, two brass-cased weights, a winder and a case key (see note above). Condition Report Disclaimer
We found 360412 price guide item(s) matching your search
There are 360412 lots that match your search criteria. Subscribe now to get instant access to the full price guide service.
Click here to subscribe- List
- Grid
-
360412 item(s)/page
Y A fine and rare small William III ebony table timepiece with silent pull quarter repeatSamuel Watson, London, circa 1695 The five finned pillar single fusee movement with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum and silent pull quarter repeat on two bells, the symmetrical foliate scroll engraved backplate signed Samuel Watson, LONDON to a central shaped cartouche beneath conforming rectangular panel backcock apron, the 5.25 inch square brass dial with single winding hole and curved false bob aperture backed with scroll engraved infill to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised sword hilt half hour markers and outer track unusually divided and numbered 0 to 60 twice with the motionwork geared so that the minute hand completes a revolution every two hours, the lower edge with repeat signature Sam. Watson, London, with scroll pierced sculpted steel hands and the angles applied with small winged cherub head cast spandrels, the case with hinged foliate scroll cast gilt carrying handle and fine vase centred foliate decorated repousse mount to the caddy surmount with ball finials to corners above moulded cornice and foliate scroll pierced lozenge sound fret to the upper rail of the front door and the uprights with scroll decorated cast brass escutcheon mounts, the sides with short over long rectangular scroll-pierced sound frets with the latter being glazed and with open panels to centres, the rear with rectangular glazed door set within the frame of the case, on moulded shallow skirt base with block feet, 28cm (11ins) high excluding handle. Samuel Watson was an important clockmaker and mathematician who is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as initially working in Coventry from around 1680 where he was Sheriff in 1686 before moving to Long Acre ('nest door to the Bagnio in the Parish), London, in around 1691; he was admitted to the Clockmakers' Company as a free Brother in 1692. He was supposedly 'Mathematician ordinary' to Charles II for whom he made an astronomical clock in 1682 followed by another clock which he did not finish until after the King's death. This clock was eventually sold to Queen Mary on its completion in 1690 and is preserved at Windsor Castle albeit in a later case. He also made two further complex astronomical clocks for Isaac Newton and invented five minute repeating for watches. In November 1712 Samuel Watson approached the Clockmaker's Company with an instrument to 'discover the houre of the day at sea and several other useful mathematical matters' but to no avail. The current lot is designed to sound the hours and quarters on two bells only on demand. This form of quarter repeat mechanism is thought to have been devised for timepieces destined for night-time use in the bedroom; whilst striking clocks with quarter repeat facility were generally intended to be utilised downstairs during the day and upstairs at night. As a consequence silent-pull quarter repeating timepieces are rarer as the original owner would have to be very wealthy indeed to afford a timepiece reserved exclusively for use in the bed chamber. The design of the repeat mechanism used in the current lot is closely related to the system used by Joseph Knibb as described and illustrated in Allix, Charles and Harvey, Laurence HOBSON'S CHOICE pages 36-7. The present timepiece belongs to a small series of small table clocks with dials marked for 0-60 twice to minute track as described in Jagger, Cedric ROYAL CLOCKS The British Monarchy and its Timekeepers on page 44 and includes an almost identical example sold in these rooms on 4th September 2012 (lot 220). The reasoning behind the gearing of the motionwork for the minute hand to complete one revolution every two hours is unknown however it is known that Samuel Watson experimented with the development of unusual dial configurations as exemplified by his astronomical clock in the Royal collection and a longcase clock movement and dial configured with concentric lunar calendar functions which was sold at Bonhams, New Bond Street, London sale of Fine Clocks 15th December 2009 (lot 112) for £2,880.The current lot presents as a particularly attractive small timepiece made during the 'Golden Age' of English clockmaking by one of the most interesting and enigmatic makers of the period.Condition Report: Movement is currently presented in its original configuration and is in relatively clean working condition although a precautionary clean and overhaul is advised. The escapement appears to be a re-conversion back to verge with short bob pendulum hence the contrate and escape wheels together with respective potances are restorations. The centre wheel and second wheel also appear to have been re-pinioned. The reconversion work has been executed well with practically no visible evidence in the plates. The repeat work appears to be all-original and unaltered with the exception of the second wheel (driving the fly) which may have been re-pinioned. The frontplate has a few filled holes to the region upper right of the centre (opposite side the repeat work), the purpose of these holes is not obvious and certainly do not suggest that any significant alterations have been done to the movement. The fusee employs a chain rather than a gut line, the rear pivot for the barrel has a pronounced bush visible on the backplate.The dial is in good clean condition with the only noticeable faults being two pairs of threaded holes either side of the false bob aperture backing plate suggesting that the plate may have originally been secured with alternative fixings. The engraving chapter ring is a little rubbed hence 'London' script of the signature is now a little faint. The hands appear original however the minute has been solder repaired.The movement seatboard appears original however the rear edge has been cut away to allow space for a larger pendulum bob from when the clock was converted to anchor escapement. The inside of the lower rail of the rear door has been shaved as has the section of the case below to allow clearance. The baseboard of the case also now has corresponding filled slot towards the rear edge. Case otherwise is in good original condition with the only significant faults being losses to both frets to the left hand side. The veneers show some movement and shrinkage cracking (commensurate with age) and feet are later ebonised replacements. Case retains original locks, hinges and movement securing bolts.Timepiece is complete with a case key and a winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A William III walnut and floral marquetry eight-day longcase clockJohn Clowes, London, circa 1700The five finned pillar outside countwheel bell striking movement with tall plates measuring 7.5 inches high and anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 11 inch square brass dial with ringed winding holes, subsidiary seconds dial and scroll border engraved calendar aperture to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised sword hilt half hour markers with Arabic five minutes to outer track and signed John Clowes, London to lower margin, with scroll pierced steel hands and twin cherub and crown cast spandrels to angles, in a case with crossgrain ogee moulded cornice and scroll-pierced frieze to lintel, over leafy trail inlaid glazed hood door applied with ebonised three-quarter columns to front angles and the sides with rectangular windows, the trunk with concave foliate marquetry veneered throat moulding over 42 inch rectangular door centred with a circular lenticle and decorated with bird inhabited floral sprays and scrolling foliage around an urn into an ebonised ground within repeating foliate motif border, the sides veneered with triple slender panels within strung and crossbanded borders, the base with crossgrain ogee top moulding and conforming rectangular marquetry panel with foliate border over bun feet, 196cm (77ins) high. John Clowes is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as born around 1651 in Odd Rode, Cheshire and was admitted as a Free Brother to the Clockmaker's Company in 1672/3. Clowes was described as a 'Great Clockmaker' (ie. maker of turret clocks) and initially worked from the parish of St. Giles in the Fields and then St. Clement Daines, Middlesex from 1680. In 1688 he married for the second time (after the death of his first wife, Ann Nettles who he married in 1681) to Tabitha Taylor, Daughter of clockmaker Thomas Taylor of Holborn. John Clowes took on many apprentices including Frances Gregg in 1691 and his son, also named John, in 1709. In 1697 he signed the Clockmaker's oath of allegiance and in 1703 he was described as being in Covent Garden. In 1705 John Clowes married his third wife, Eleanor Caris at St. Martin in the Fields. He became an Assistant of the Clockmaker's Company in 1708 and was due to serve as Warden in 1713 but was unable to do so due to ill health, he died in 1717. John Clowes work often displays flourished of individuality such as continued use of outside countwheel and tall plates long after most makers were employing internal countwheels. The sculpted brass block at the base of the hammer spring is another detail sometimes seen on movements by Clowes demonstrating his often quirky attention to detail.Condition Report: Movement is in clean working condition and appears to have been recently overhauled with some re-bushing etc. The mechanism appears all original with no visible evidence of alteration or significant replacements. The dial has some overall discolouration to the brass plate and the seconds hand is missing. The hands may be replacements otherwise is in good original condition. The movement has an old oak seatboard which rests directly onto the uprights (cheek) of the case save a small piece of packing to the front right hand edge. The seatboard however may not be original hence we cannot offer any categorical assurances that the movement and dial are original to the case however it is our view that they probably are.The case is in good original condition. The hood top board, frieze fret and columns are probably replacements and it is lacking quarter columns and bargeboards to the rear of the hood. The trunk and plinth are in fine condition with the latter apparently retaining original structure and veneers although the underside of the base now has a board applied to close it off. The backboard also appears to retain all of its original length continuing down to the base of the plinth. The bun feet are later restorations. Other aults to the case are otherwise very much limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkage and other very minor age related blemishes. The colour is generally very good.Clock is basically in 'take-home' condition and has pendulum, weights, two case keys and a winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
An impressive Regency brass inlaid mahogany quarter chiming table clockViner, London, circa 1820The substantial six pillar triple chain fusee movement chiming the quarters on a graduated nest of eight bells and sounding the hour on a further larger bell, with half-deadbeat escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum and signed Viner, Regent Street, LONDON to the geometric border engraved backplate, the 9 inch silvered brass Roman numeral arched dial signed Viner, Regent Street, LONDON to centre and with blued steel hands beneath subsidiary STRIKE/SILENT selection dial to arch, the substantial ogee lancet-shaped case with large gilt brass pineapple finial to the stylised foliate motif inlaid pediment within double brass-line borders flanked by further smaller conforming finials set on obelisk-shaped plinths, over front door with silvered canted fillet set within the glazed dial aperture and rosette-interrupted line decoration to frame, flanked by canted angles applied with cast standing mummiform mounts over brass decorated plinths, the sides with generous brass ring carrying handles over rectangular brass fishscale sound frets, the rear with break-arch glazed door, on complex cavetto moulded skirt base incorporating brass scroll inlaid apron panel over lozenges set within line borders and brass ball feet, 88cm (34.75ins) high. Provenance: The beneficiaries of the estate of a private collector, Wiltshire. Charles Edward Viner is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as apprenticed to Thomas Savage in 1802 and gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1813. He was elevated to Liveryman in 1819. He was a fine maker who worked from Regent Street and is best known for producing fine complex giant carriage clocks and small mantel clocks. The firm of Viner and Company is further recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers & Watchmakers of the World, complete 21st century edition as working from 233 Regent Street, London 1827-50.Condition Report: Movement is in fine clean condition and is fully operational. There are no obvious signs of significant alterations or replacements however there are two sets spare holes to the backplate. The first is just to the right of the fly and appears to be an alternative location for quarter bell-stand foot with its steady pin hole beneath at one time erroneously drilled with an oil sink. The present location of the quarter bell-stand foot is preferable as it is well clear of the fly and allows easier adjustment of the bells in relation to the hammers. The second set of holed are just below the pendulum suspension and appear to be for a screw (thread not completed) and steady pin perhaps intended for some form of component to be fitted to the inside the inside of the backplate which was not required. Both of these pairs of holes are not considered 'problematic' or indicative of the movement undergoing any notable alteration. Cosmetically the movement may probably benefit from them being filled when the mechanism is next apart for a service.The dial is in good original condition with some slight 'mellowing' to silvered finish only.The case is also in fine original condition with noticeable faults limited to some very slight lifting of the brass inlay to the corners of the lower door rail at the joints and a few very minor bumps, scuffs and shrinkage commensurate with age.Clock is generally in fine original condition throughout with the only (minor) noteworthy faults being a couple of spare holes in the backplate and slight lifting to the brass inlay to the lower rail of the front door; has pendulum, two case keys and a winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A rare late Victorian or Edwardian electro-medical panel for electric shock therapiesKarl Friedrich Schall, London, circa 1900With heavy black marble back panel applied with an arrangement of electrical components comprising three filament lightbulbs; a Milli Amp d'Arsonval galvometer; GALVANISATION and FARADISATION switches; sledge coil; three sets of switches including two mounted on green marble pads, and an induction coil incorporating sliding outer sleeve, electromagnetic vibrating pulse generator and with drawer containing containing various silk-bound wires and electrodes to the underside of the coil, the lower edge with ivorine button inscribed K. SCHALL, 35 G'T MARYLEBONE ST., LONDON W. flanked by brass output terminals, the apparatus set within a walnut glazed front case with line incised decorative crest over full-height front door, 82cm (32.25ins) high. Karl Friedrich Schall was born in 1859 at, Ohringen, German the son of the lawyer William Schall. From 1877 to 1879, he was in Tubingen as a university mechanic and apprenticed as a precision mechanic. During 1880-1881, Schall completed the mandatory one-year volunteer service in the military, and travelled to Paris, London and Switzerland. Schall became a British citizen in 1893. Prior to this Schall, through his operations within various partnerships in Germany, had become a specialist in the production of 'physical-mechanical' apparatus and had opened a factories (albeit only for a short time) in Stuttgart and New York. During the 1890's Schall became involved in the development of X-ray technology (mainly through his operations within the Erlangen partnership of Reiniger, Gebbert & Schall) whilst building his business at 55 Wigmore Street, London. By 1905 Schall had relocated to 35 Great Marylebone Street where he was based until he retired to Switzerland in 1912 leaving the business in the management of his son, William Schall. The present lot was designed to facilitate the administration of finely calibrated electric shock treatment including electroconvulsive therapy. A very similar instrument is illustrated in Schall's 1902 catalogue of ELECTRO-MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS (model number 1607A) where it is claimed that such machines had been supplied to numerous named hospitals. The very fine quality manufacture of the current instrument indicates that it was a 'flagship' model, hence would have most likely been supplied to a leading facility specialising in such treatments.
An oak cased barograph with thermometer G. Lee and Son, Portsmouth, early 20th century The mechanism with seven segment aneroid chamber connected via a lacquered brass armature to an inked pointer for recording the change in barometric pressure on a clockwork-driven rotating paper scale lined drum, the brass baseplate also applied with mercury tube Fahrenheit and Centigrade silvered scale thermometer and with ivorine trade label inscribed G. LEE & SON, THE HARD, PORTSMOUTH, the case with five panel bevel-glazed cover above ogee moulded base incorporating apron drawer containing some spare charts over simple squab feet, 38cm (15ins) wide. George Lee and Son and recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS & RETAILERS 1660-1900 as 'Instrument-makers to the Honourable Corporation of Trinity House and the Admiralty' working from Ordnance Row, Portsea and 3 Palmerston Road, Southsea, Portsmouth circa 1880-1900.Condition Report: Clock movement is in working condition, the aneroid mechanism appears to be in good condition and is providing an appropriate reading so also appears to be in working order. The instrument retains original lacquer finish to the brass work which has some relatively light degradation and discolouration. The thermometer is intact and working with only light tarnishing to the silvered scale. The ink bottle is present; there is a small ink stain to the base of the case but this is concealed by the frame of the cover so cannot be seen with the cover in place. Extenally the case is in good original condition with no visible damage to the glass and good tight joints to the cover. The finish appears untouched with hence would benefit from a polish however is free for any visible problematic damage. The chart drawer contains a small quantity of spare charts.Instrument has integral winder for the clockwork mechanism. Condition Report Disclaimer
A French Bourdon pattern carved ebonised aneroid wheel barometerJules Richard, Paris, Late 19th centuryWith visible gilded mechanism incorporating curved Bourdon tube connected to pivoted rack driving a pinion to the arbor of the pointer, the mechanism back panel stamped with circular JR monogram trademark over Brevette, within shaped silvered surround fronted with glass printed with scale in barometric inches from 28 to 31 divided into tenths and with the usual observations, the banjo-shaped case inset with glazed mercury tube FAHRENHEIT and CENTIGRADE enamel scale thermometer to upright with fine foliate scroll relief carved decoration applied to shaped moulded platforms to crest, waist and base, 79cm (31ins) high. The maker of the mechanism of the current lot, Jules Richard, was the son of Felix Richard who worked in partnership with Bourdon. Jules Richard was born in 1848 and trained under his father before working with other scientific instrument and clock manufacturers. However he later diversified in the manufacturing of telegraph equipment and worked closely with the French scientist EJ Marey on electrical and photographic recording techniques during the 1870's. Following the death of his father in 1876, Jules inherited the family business and in 1882, he formed a partnership with his brother Max under the name of Richard Freres. This partnership was dissolved in 1891 but the company maintained its partnership name with Jules taking sole control of the business until 1921 when it was listed as a public company. The 'JR' makers stamp to the current lot would date it between 1876 when Jules took over the business and 1882, when the Richard Freres partnership began.; later movements were stamped 'RF' The inventor of the mechanism, Eugene Bourdon (1808-1884) was an early competitor to Lucien Vidie (inventor of the bellows movement) registering his crescent shaped mechanism design in 1849; it was originally produced under licence with Felix Richard (Bourdon & Richard), and continued to be produced by his successors. Bourdon's designs for both barometers and pressure gauges were met with approval at The Great Exhibition in 1851 winning him a council medal alongside his competitor Vidie. Bourdon's mechanisms however were slightly more fragile than Vidie's and although they continued to be produced until the turn of the century, they were less well received.
An unusual mercury stick barometer with isothermal altitude scaleShort and Mason Limited, London, first half of the 20th centuryThe oak wall panel applied with cast-iron cistern and tube complete with Bunten air trap against twin silvered scales, the left annotated for ISOTHERMAL ALTITUDE FEET from -1000 to 0 to 24,000 and the right for INCHES from 12 to 32 and divided into twentieths, the right hand margin signed SHORT & MASON, LONDON and the top edge inscribed No. E.7641, (lacking mercury), the back panel 94cm (37ins) high. The firm of Short and Mason are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS & RETAILERS 1660-1900 as operating from 62 Hatton Garden, London 1873-75 then 40 Hatton Garden from 1876. They were leading makers of barographs and aneroid barometers well into the 20th century later merging with Taylor Instruments in 1969.It would appear that the lot is designed to demonstrate the non-linear relationship with regards to variance in air pressure versus altitude. The labelling of the altitude scale with the term 'isothermal' indicates that the scale is has no form of temperature compensation, in other words the altitude reading would only prove accurate if temperature remains the same.
A George III mahogany mercury stick barometerJonathan Illingworth, Hallifax, circa 1800With elaborate 'whales tail' crest over glazed door enclosing paper scales calibrated in barometric inches and annotated for both winter and summer within borders decorated with landscape panels and incorporating simple brass recording pointer, the arched upper margin printed Jon'n Hollingworth, fecit Hallifax, the panel veneered trunk with visible tube and moulded circular cistern cover to base, 98cm (38.5ins) high. Jonathan Illingworth is recorded in Banfield, Edwin Barometer Makers and Retailers 1660-1900 as working in Hallifax circa 1790-1810.
A German Augsburg pattern gilt brass portable equinoctial compass sundialLudwig Theodor Muller, Augsburg, mid 18th century The recessed silvered compass centre with rose and radial lines engraved with German annotations for the four cardinal points beneath glazed panel within octagonal surround engraved with symmetrical foliate scrolls on a matted ground, the hinged open hour circle pivoting against folding curved latitude scale and engraved in reverse III-XII-IX with stylised wheatear half hour markers, the centre with pivoted needle gnomon set on a sprung arbor, the underside of the compass with engraved Elev Poli, Lisbon 39; Rom 42; Venedig 45; Wien, Munch, Aug sp. 4X; Nurn, Regen sp 49; Prag, Cracau 50; Leizig 51 over monogram L.T.M. to lower margin, 6cm (2.375ins) wide. The exact working dates for Ludwig Theodor (or Ludovicus Theodatus) Muller appear to be unknown however he is believed to have flourished between 1710 and 1770.
A French silver Butterfield portable horizontal compass sundial Michael Butterfield, Paris, circa 1700The elongated octagonal plate with four hour scales for 52, 49, 46 and 43 degrees, the outer 4-12-8 divided into quarter-hours, the next three IIII-XI-I-VIII, 4-12-7 and V-XI-I-VII divided into half hours, the centre with foliate engraved panel within band signed Butterfield, AParis, with glazed compass opposing hinged bird engraved adjustable gnomon calibrated in degrees for elevation to the outer edge, the underside engraved with latitudes for twenty cities including Strasbourg, Bordeaux, Rome, Genes and Paris, the compass baseplate decorated with a fine rosette, (compass hand and glass replaced), 5.7cm (2.125ins) long; in original fish skin covered case with red velvet lined interior, 7cm (2.75ins) long overall. Michael Butterfield was born in England around 1635 but moved to France in around 1663 finally settling in Paris in 1677 where he established his workshops at Faubourg St-Germain, rue Neuve-des-Fossés trading under the sign 'arms of England'. In 1680 Butterfield was made 'Engineer of The King' and became associated through the likes of Huygens and Cassini with the Academy of Sciences from whom he received a coat of arms in 1698. In 1702 Butterfield was admitted as a freeman to the Founders Corporation.Michael Butterfield became one of the leading makers of instruments with products from his workshop including lodestones, graphometers, quadrants, graduated rulers, sectors, proportional compasses and various types of sundials. His reputation was such that he received patronage from Tsar Peter the Great in 1717. By this time Michael Butterfield was trading from the 'Le Quay de l'Horloge' where he was based until his death on 1724.
A large aluminium and Perspex Van de Graaff electrostatic generatorW.B. Nicholson Scotland, mid 20th centuryConstructed with two-part aluminium sphere 12 inches in diameter enclosing fabric covered Perspex pulley over cylindrical plexiglass column above stepped domed base enclosing electric motor driving a conforming pulley, the exterior with FAST/SLOW adjustment knob and tradeplate inscribed VAN DE GRAAFF, GENERATOR around an diamond lozenge enclosing initials WBN, (rubber belt lacking), 98m (38.5ins) high and with insulated short stool; with an 'Earth Inducer' flip coil, the wooden frame with central circular rotating coil incorporating connection posts and detents to lower pivot and disc calibrated for degrees of rotation to the top, the outer frame pivoted at 90 degrees between two panel uprights over base with trade label inscribed SERIAL No. 20148, 400 TURNS 36G D.S.C. COPPER, MEAN DIAMETER 27.7 CM, PHILIP HARRIS LTD. BIRMINGHAM, 54.5cm (21.5ins) wide, (2). Provenance: By repute the Van de Graaff generator featured in an episode of the Dr. Who spin-off television series 'Torchwood'. The Van de Graaff generator was developed bt the American physicist Robert J. Van de Graaff in 1929 as a particle accelerator for physics research; its high potential was designed to be used to accelerate subatomic particles to great speeds in an evacuated tube. It was the most powerful type of accelerator of the 1930s until the cyclotron was developed. Van de Graaff generators are still used as accelerators to generate energetic particles and X-ray beams for nuclear research and nuclear medicine as well as for educational demonstration purposes.The Van de Graaff works on the principal that the simple contact of dissimilar materials causes the transfer of some electrons from one material to the other. In operation the rubber of the belt will become negatively charged while the acrylic glass of the upper roller will become positively charged. The belt carries away negative charge on its inner surface while the upper roller accumulates positive charge within the aluminium globe. The size of the globe dictates the voltage potential that the instrument can accumulate but typically larger examples (as per the current lot) can generate in the region of 250,000 Volts. The Earth Inductor apparatus was devised by Charles Edouard Joseph Delzenne (1776-1866). The instrument is designed to measure the magnitude and direction of the earth's magnetic field using a flip coil in conjunction with a ballistic galvanometer. This is done by quickly flipped the coil through 180 degrees, and reading the output. By measuring the total charge delivered by the induced EMF the magnitude of the magnetic field threading the coil can be ascertained. Condition Report: Generator is intact and complete except for the belt. The aluminium is oxidised and pitted and the dome has some denting. We have not been able to test the electric motor due to non-compliant wiring. The stool has wear from use but is intact, the Earth Inducer is intact and in original condition: we have not been able to test the continuity of the coil. Condition Report Disclaimer
A collection of six laboratory electric induction coilsUnsigned, early 20th centuryThe largest with 14 inch long by 7.5 inch diameter black celluloid-covered cylinder between Bakelite end caps incorporating brass post terminals, and mahogany panel supports fitted with substantial contact breaker to one end, standing on the moulded mahogany plinth base applied with pivoted switch and power supply connection posts, 76cm (30ins) wide; together with an iron ring Faraday coil, diameter 16.5cm (6.5ins), (7).
A large laboratory electric induction coilW. and J. George and Becker Limited, Birmingham and London, mid 20th centuryEnclosed within a 4.25 inch diameter black celluloid cylinder between Bakelite end panel supports fitted with substantial contact breaker to one end and applied with brass ball connectors for wiring to a pair of insulated posts fitted with adjustable discharge rods, standing on the moulded mahogany plinth base applied with pivoted switch , power supply connection posts and ivorine trade label inscribed W. & J. GEORGE & BECKER LTD, BIRMINGHAM & LONDON E.C. to front edge, 43.5cm (17.25ins) wide. W. & J. George & Becker Ltd. are recorded on the Sciemce Museum website as founded from take-over of F.E. Becker & Co. by W.J. George Ltd. In 1897; the former continued to trade under the original name until 1950s when W. & J. George & Becker Ltd., was adopted. The company was succeeded by Griffin & George when W. & J. George & Becker Ltd merged with Griffin & Tatlock. In 1947 their addresses were listed as Nivoc House, 17-19 Hatton Wall, London, EC1; 157 Great Charles Street, Birmingham and Alperton, Wembley, Middlesex, England.
Y A Victorian brass bound mahogany carriage clock case For a carriage clock by James McCabe, London, circa 1850 Of rectangular form with recessed brass carrying handle to top and rounded brass bound edges, the front with central panel sliding upwards to reveal the green velvet lined interior before folding back to allow the section incorporating ivory plaque inscribed JAMES McCABE, Royal Exchange, LONDON, No 2778 to form the upper margin of the aperture, the rear with door set flush within the frame of the case, 25cm (9.75ins) high. James McCabe junior succeeded his father of the same name was one of the most successful English clock and watchmakers of the 19th century. He was apprenticed to Reid and Auld of Edinburgh and was admitted to the Clockmaker's Company as a Free Brother in 1822. Around this time McCabe entered into short lived partnership with Strahan (probably Charles who gained his freedom of the Clockmaker's Company in 1815). From 1826 James McCabe managed the business alone from 97 Cornhill until 1838 when he was forced to temporarily relocate to 32 Cornhill due to a major fire at the Royal Exchange. It was at this time (1825-43) that Thomas Cole worked for McCabe before setting up his own to produce distinctive and highly decorative timepieces in his own unmistakable style. The business was subsequently continued by Robert Jeremy until his retirement in 1883. The current lot would have housed a particularly fine giant carriage clock made at the height of James McCabe's career. The fittings to the inside of the case suggest that clock number 2778 would have been of one of McCabe's distinctive designs with the case incorporating scroll-outline canted angles (see Roberts, Derek CARRIAGE and Other Travelling CLOCKS page 292). Condition Report: Maximum internal dimensions: depth 14cm; width 18cm; height 22cm. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A Regency eight-day marine chronometerBarraud, London, circa 1815The four pillar single chain reverse fusee movement with stepped bridge for the mainspring barrel incorporating blued steel set-up ratchet, Harrison's maintaining power, Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by Pennington 'double-L' type split bimetallic balance with helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone set within separate sub-plate assembly, the backplate signed Barrauds Cornhill, LONDON 750, the 3.5 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial over signature Barrauds, LONDON, sector aperture for state of wind and repeat serial number 750 to centre and blued steel spade hands, set behind a screw-down bezel into a brass bowl with shuttered winding hole to underside and mounted via gimbals into a mahogany three tier box centred with a shaped brass name plaque to the top, with brass capped corners over strap-bound edges, the sides with brass carrying handles and the front with vacant ivory panel over shaped brass key escutcheon, (bowl, gimbals and box probably mid 19th century replacements) 15cm (6ins) wide; with a copy of Jagger, Cedric PAUL PHILIP BARRAUD, The Antiquarian Horological Society, London 1968, dj; complete with supplement, (2). Provenance: According to Jagger Barraud No. 750 was aboard H.M. Ship Ariadne under the command of Lieut. Gordon. Whilst at Port Louis a Mr. Newman aboard the vessel comments "I esteem Barrauds Chronometer 750 so much that I use it as a regulator to five others on board by comparing them every day". The Marquis of Huntly also commented very favourably on the chronometer's performance during a voyage which commenced on the 10th May, 1822. Jagger's supplement also notes Barraud 750 as 'said to have been used by the U.S. Navy in W.W.1 and then laid up at Naval Observatory until W.W.2, then disposed of. Also listed in C.L.R.B. under dates Sept., 1850 - January, 1851.' Paul Phillip Barraud (born 1752) worked with his father at first until his death in 1795 after which Barraud turned his attention more towards chronometers. Using the valuable experience gained whilst working on Mudge's timekeepers with W. Howells and G. Jamieson to good effect, he became very successful. After his death in 1820 the business was continued by his sons taking John Richard Lund, a former apprentice of John Pennington (who developed the auxiliary compensation balance weight to correct for middle temperature changes), into partnership in 1838. Two comparable eight-day movements by Barraud (numbers 986 and 2/570) are illustrated in Bertele, Hans von MARINE & POCKET CHRONOMETERS, History and Development pages 162-63 (Figures 159a and 161a). The brass bowl and case of the present timepiece are probably mid 19th century purpose-made replacements as it would appear that Barraud's chronometers made during the Regency period tended to be housed in a different design of bowl with convex glass to the screw-down bezel.
Y A Victorian small two-day marine chronometerCharles Frodsham, London, circa 1845 The four pillar full-plate single chain fusee movement with Harrison's maintaining power, split bimetallic balance with keystone-shaped compensation weights, helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the spotted backplate signed Charles Frodsham, London and with brass bayonet fitting dust cover, the 3.25 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with blued steel fleur-de-lys hands, subsidiary seconds and power reserve dials, and inscribed CHARLES FRODSHAM, 7 Pavement, Finsbury Park, London, No. 2012 to centre, set in a lacquered brass bowl with screw-down bezel mounted within pivoted gimbals with locking screw, the mahogany three-tier case with vacant nameplate to top surface and push button clasp for the top tier above inset ivory panel inscribed ARNOLD, CHARLES FRODSHAM, 84 STRAND, LONDON. to the middle tier, with brass key escutcheon over circular plate engraved with repeat serial number 2012 beneath, the sides with brass carrying handles, the box 15cm (6ins) wide. Charles Frodsham was born in 1810 into a family of clockmakers with his grandfather, William originating from Cheshire before moving to London prior to 1781 where he was admitted to the Clockmakers Company. His son, William James, had six sons, four of whom joined the firm of Parkinson and Frodsham in London; whilst Charles, the third born son set-up on his own at Barnes Place, Islington in 1834. He moved to 12 Finsbury Pavement in 1836 then to number 7 in 1838. On the death of the renowned chronometer maker John Roger Arnold in 1843 Charles Frodsham acquired the business and began trading as Arnold, Charles Frodsham from 84 Strand, London. Unusually Frodsham was not admitted to the Clockmakers Company until 1845 but went on to serve as master twice in 1855 and 1862; he was also a founder member of the British horological Institute in 1858.Charles Frodsham became one of the most eminent chronometer makers of his generation who served as a juror in the 1852 International Exhibition held at South Kensington where he also showed a month duration marine chronometer with experimental Duo-in-uno balance springs and three different forms of compound balance. In 1854 he purchased the goodwill of the late Benjamin Lewis Vulliamys business which led to his appointment as Superintendent and Keeper of Her Majestys clocks at Buckingham Palace. Charles Frodsham died of liver disease in January 1871 and was succeeded by his son, Harrison Mill Frodsham. The business became Charles Frodsham and Company and in 1884 and then was incorporated as a limited Company in 1893 before relocating to 115 New Bond Street, London two years later where they remained well into the Twentieth Century. The firm is still trading today (from 32 Bury Street, London) as specialist in chronometer, watch and clock makers. The current lot appears to be one of the first chronometers sold by Frodsham after he acquired the late John Roger Arnolds business in 1843 as the dial carries his former address (7 Pavement, Finsbury Square) whilst the box has a plaque for Arnold, Charles Frodsham at 84 Strand, London. This fact is further supported by the existence (in the collection of the National Maritime Museum -accession number ZAA0058) of a small marine chronometer numbered 2025 and signed by Frodsham at 84 Strand which utilises a pocket chronometer movement made by Arnold in around 1802. From this it is reasonable to surmise that Frodsham initially used-up old stock, both from his Finsbury address and Arnolds former business, when he first started trading from 84 Strand in 1843.Condition Report: Movement appears to be in fine clean working condition with no obvious alterations, repairs or replacements. The lacquered finish has a few areas of tarnishing and discolouration. The dial is in fine condition with clear engraving and only light tarnishing mainly towards lower edge. The internal cover has some light wear/discolouration to the original lacquered finish otherwise is in fine condition. The brass bowl and gimbal assembly are in fine condition however have probably been gently cleaned and re-lacquered at some point and are now showing slight discolouration in places. The box appears to be in fine condition with faults essentially limited to slight patchy fading to the top panel and a crack to the left hand margin of the ivory nameplate to the front.Instrument has a case key but presently no winder -has been consigned as part of a private collection. The vendor was unable to locate the keys to his clocks at the time of consigning, he has now found them and is sending them to us so hopefully the clock will have a key by the time the sale goes on view -we will update this report accordingly. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A Victorian brass bound rosewood two-day marine chronometerParkinson and Frodsham, London, circa 1880The four pillar full-plate single chain fusee movement with spotted plates, Harrison's maintaining power and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by split bimetallic balance with circular timing weights and helical balance spring with faceted diamond endstone, the 4 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with blued steel hands, subsidiary seconds incorporating serial number 4184, power reserve dial, and inscribed PARKINSON & FRODSHAM, ROYAL EXCHANGE, LONDON to centre, set in a lacquered brass bowl with screw-down bezel mounted within pivoted gimbals with locking screw, the rosewood three-tier case with brass shield nameplate within double-line borders and brass bound edges to top over conforming front with push-button clasp for the top tier above applied ivory panel inscribed PARKINSON & FRODSHAM,4184, LONDON to the middle tier and with inset brass key escutcheon, the sides with recessed brass carrying handles and conforming brass bound edges, 18.5cm (7.25ins) wide. William Parkinson and William James Frodsham founded the highly regarded firm of Parkinson & Frodsham in 1801 at 4 Change Alley, Cornhill, London. William Parkinson died in 1842 and William Frodsham in 1850. Initially the firm specialised in marine and pocket chronometers. It had an extensive export business, and supplied the Admiralty and numerous shipping companies. After the founders' deaths the business was continued by Frodsham's elder sons and grandson until 1912, when the name and business were sold to the foreman, William Harris. Harris and his son Geoffrey ran the business successfully until 1944 when the firm's premises in Budge Row were bombed.Condition Report: Movement is in clean working condition and appears all-original, plates have some light patchy discolouration from handling. Dial is in fine condition with only very slight mellowing to the silvered finish. The bowl and gimbals are in good original condition with relatively minor wear/degradation to the lacquer finish.Box is generally in fine original unrestored condition retailing all of its inlay and other brass fittings. The top panel has a very slight bow and general slight movement in the case has caused the brass angle edging to stand a little proud. The front name panel has cracks around three of the four securing screws, the finish is a little dull and the brass generally rubbed/oxidised.Chronometer has winder but no box key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A fine French gilt brass five minute-repeating carriage clock with dumb-strikeRetailed by Mangan, Rhodes and Son, Bradford, late 19th centuryThe eight-day gong hour-striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement and five minute repeat on a second smaller gong, the rear with plunger operated hammer arrest lever and stamped with small indistinct trademark serial number 20724 to lower margin, the dial with rectangular gilt engine-turned mask enclosing an inset Roman numeral enamel hour disc inscribed MANGAN RHODES & SON, Bradford to centre within red Arabic five minutes to outer track and with blued steel moon hands, the gilt brass bevel-glazed cannelee case with hinged carrying handle to the glazed oval panel centred top incorporating 5 Minutes and Hours repeat plungers to front edge and a further plunger labelled Dumb Striking to the rear, with complex upper mouldings, channelled corner uprights and ogee-shaped skirt base, 14cm (5.5ins) high excluding handle. Five-minute repeating clocks are discussed in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development on pages 197-98. Of the two variations described by Allix the current lot falls into the first with the strike-work being related to that of a grande or petit sonnerie striking clock. However the present clock is unusual in being of this type but having separate plungers for sounding full five minute repeat or hours only as well as well as dumb striking. Although seemingly very scarce another very closely related example, this time in an engraved case and numbered 20721 (ie. only three numbers before the present clock), was sold in these rooms on Tuesday 2nd October (lot 141) for £2,200 hammer. A further example with this unusual configuration (numbered 20720) was sold at Christies, South Kensington, London The Dr. Eugene and Rose Antelis Collection of Important French Carriage Clocks 26th November 1998 (lot 106).Condition Report: Movement is in clean condition with no obvious evidence of alteration, repairs or significant replacements. The going train is operational as is the strike train and the repeat mechanism. Both the hour and five minute repeat functions are also operational however it would appear that the five-minute sounds one interval short for the reading provided by the minute hand. The repeat function appears generally reliable but will now and again miss an hour hence a clean and overhaul is advised. The 'dumb' function is operational although the plunger has to be held down to enable the silent action.The dial has light hairline cracking to the enamel centre (only visible on close examination so not disfiguring) and the mask is a little tarnished/discoloured. The case is undamaged with no visible chips to the glasses however the original gilt finish is heavily rubbed/tarnished.Clock has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A French frosted gilt brass carriage clock with push-button repeatUnsigned, Paris, late 19th centuryThe eight-day two-train gong striking movement with slivered platform lever escapement and stamped with serial number 7937 to the lower left corner of the backplate, the circular white enamel Roman numeral dial with blued steel spade hands inset into a rectangular engine-turned silvered mask engraved and highlighted in gilt with symmetrical floral scroll infill, the bevel glazed frosted gilt case a variant of the pillars design with milled banded decoration to the hinged carrying handle over bold convex top moulding and conforming decoration to the three-quarter column corner uprights, on substantial caddy moulded skirt base, 16.5cm (6.5ins) high; with a later faux red leather covered outer travelling case. Provenance: The beneficiary of the Estate of a private collector, East Midlands.Condition Report: Movement is in clean condition with no obvious evidence of alteration, repairs or significant replacements and is fully operational. The dial is free from visible faults although the silvering to the mask is tarnished. The case is in fine condition with only very minimal wear/discolouration to the gilt finish (mainly to the handle and top panel) and no visible chips to the glasses. The outer travelling case is non-original 20th century replacement and has some wear/scuffing.Clock has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A fine French gilt brass gorge cased calendar carriage clock with push-button repeat and alarmProbably by Jules Brunelot, Paris for retail by Conrad Felsing, Berlin, mid 19th centuryThe two train eight-day bell striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement and alarm sounding on the same bell, the backplate stamped with trademark B within a circle to lower left hand corner and with oval retailer's mark CONRAD FELSING, HCF-UHRMACHER, BERLIN to centre, the rectangular white enamel Roman numeral dial inscribed CONRAD FELSING, Hof Uhrmacher, BERLIN to centre and with blued steel moon hands over subsidiary alarm setting dial flanked by day-of-the-week and date-of-the-month subsidiaries, the gilt brass bevel-glazed gorge case with hinged carrying handle over oval top glass and ogee top mouldings with complex angles, on conforming ogee outline skirt base, 15cm (6ins) high.Provenance: The beneficiary of the Estate of a private collector, East Midlands.The trademark stamped to the lower left hand corner of the backplate of the current lot (letter B within a circle) is noted in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development as possibly being for Jules Brunelot although no evidence has been found to confirm this.The Berlin firm of Conrad Felsing could trace their roots back to Conrad Voltzing whose family had been making clock since 1733. In around 1820 the family relocated to Berlin and Conrad changed his name from Voltzing to Felsing. He was subsequently joined by his son, Albert Karl Julius (who later changed his name to Conrad) and the business grew to become established as one of the leading retailers of clocks and watches in the city. Records indicate that the firm was still trading in 1936 but it is believed not to have survived the Second World War. The case of the current lot appears to be an early version of the gorge case with crisp multi-piece ogee top mouldings. According to Charles Allix (see Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development page 165) the gorge case was 'current by 1867' however as the current case appears to be an earlier variant (having more complex primary top mouldings etc.) it would be reasonable to suggest that it was probably made closer to 1850. This belief is further supported by the fact that the clock strikes on a bell rather than a gong.Condition Report: Movement is in clean condition with no obvious evidence of alteration, repairs or significant replacements. The going and strike trains are fully operational including the repeat function however the repeat button is missing and the lever that arrests the fly is catching causing a buzzing noise when the strike train is running (probably very straightforward to rectify whilst movement is out of the case. The calendar advances with the hands (at around 6am) and the alarm is operational.The dial appears free from visible damage although the signature is a little rubbed (place name is very faint) as are the annotations for the three subsidiaries although they can still be read easily.The case is in fine condition with damage limited to small chips to the upper right hand corners of the right hand side and rear glass panels. As previously mentioned the push-button for the repeat is lacking and there is also a slight scratch to the case top panel near the front edge.Clock has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A French lacquered brass grande-sonnerie striking oval carriage clock with push-button repeat and alarmUnsigned, late 19th centuryThe eight-day two train movement ting-tang striking the quarters on a graduated pair of gongs and sounding the hour every quarter hour on the larger of the two, with silvered platform lever escapement and alarm sounding on the smaller gong, the backplate with stamped serial number 881 and engraved initials P.R. to lower edge and the frontplate numbered 9495 to the inside lower margin, the rectangular white Roman numeral dial with blued steel spade hands over subsidiary alarm setting dial to lower margin, the substantial oval case with hinged scroll outline carrying handle over generous stepped ogee top mouldings, the front and sides with curved bevel glass panels and the rear with conforming pin-hinged door, on ogee profile skirt base with Gde Sonnerie/Silence/Pte Sonnerie selection lever to underside, 14cm (5,5ins) high excluding handle.Condition Report: Movement is in clean condition with no obvious evidence of alteration, repairs or significant replacements. The going and strike trains are fully operational (including the functions dictated by the selection lever to the base). The dial has a vertical hairline crack to the lower half of the panel (only visible on close examination hence is not disfiguring) otherwise appears undamaged. The case is in fine condition with only very minimal wear/discolouration to the gilt finish.Clock has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A fine and unusual silvered and engraved gilt brass calendar carriage clock with visible escapement to dialJapy Freres, Paris, circa 1860The eight-day two train bell striking movement with vertical lever escapement planted with the recessed centre of the dial regulated by sprung bimetallic balance pivoted beneath a yoke-shaped bridge, the bachplate with regulation square and a pair of push-buttons for calendar adjustment over stamped oval trademark JAPY FRERES ET CIE, EXPOSITION, 1855 GRANDE,MED., D'HONNEUR to centre and serial number 100 to lower margin, the dial with escapement to the recessed silvered panel-backed centre within slender white Roman numeral enamel chapter ring and with blued steel moon hands set within a rectangular gilt brass mask finely engraved with extensive foliate scrolls onto a matted ground, the silvered brass corniche type bevel-glazed case with hinged carrying handle over oval top glass enclosing twin enamel subsidiary calendar dials for day-of-the-week and date-of-the-month within conforming gilt foliate scroll engraved infill, with cavetto cornice and caddy moulded angles over conforming skirt base, 14.5cm (5.75ins) high. Provenance: The beneficiary of the Estate of a private collector, East Midlands. The firm of Japy Freres et Cie was founded by Frederick Japy in 1774 who set-up a modest workshop in Montbeliard as a watch and machine tool maker. Japy expanded his business rapidly and by 1804, the year he was awarded the Legion d Honneur by Napoleon (in recognition for his Brevets in horological machinery), he employed 300 people at his manufactory in Beaucourt. From 1806, he took five of his sons into partnership and the firm expanded adding buildings at Badevel and La Feschotte amongst others to become one of the largest makers of clocks in Europe. The business continued into the Twentieth century but during the inter-war period went into decline and is thought to have finally wound-up in around 1840. A detailed history of Japy Freres et Cie is provided in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development chapter VI pages 133-48. The visible vertically-planted escapement positioned to the centre of the dial of the current lot is an unusual configuration no doubt devised to allow the space above the movement to be utilised for calendar work. The design and positioning of the escapement appears to be very scarce and unique to Japy Freres, and can be directly compared to another clock (this time mounted with equinoctial sundial to the top) by them illustrated in Roberts, Derek CARRIAGE and other Travelling CLOCKS pages 235 (Fig 14.4). From the description this other example bears the same oval trademark as the current lot and is numbered 203 which suggests that this type of escapement was only used on a few examples for a relatively short period of time around 1860. Condition Report: The movement appears complete and original with no obvious evidence of alterations, significant repairs or replacements. The escapement will currently not beat and on close examination the balance wheel appears a little misaligned hence there is probably a fault with the balance staff or pivot. The strike train is operational however the hour hand catches against the escapement assembly hence is likely to become out of sync, the bellstand has been repaired and the bell itself is loose. The day-of-t he week function advances correctly however the date-of-the-month presently does not. Movement therefore requires attention although generally it appears to have survived in original condition. The enamel chapter ring as hairline cracks near the I and II numerals and both hands have been repaired otherwise dial is in good condition with fine quality engraving to the mask. Case is generally in fine condition with no visible chips to the corner glasses except for a very slight chip to the upper right corner of the rear glass and only slight edge wear to the plated finish. There is some light historic scuffing/scratching around the rear door knob probably from attempts to lever open with a key or something similar.Clock does not have a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A fine French engraved pierced fretwork panel inset gilt brass anglaise riche cased petit-sonnerie striking carriage clock with push-button repeat and alarmLe Roy and Fils, Paris, circa 1900The eight-day two train movement ting-tang striking the quarters on a graduated pair of gongs and sounding the hour every quarter hour on the larger of the two, with silvered platform lever escapement, alarm sounding on the smaller gong the backplate with enamel Arabic numeral alarm setting dial to centre and stamped with serial number 7072 to the lower left hand corner of the backplate, the dial with gilt brass foliate scroll pierced centre within cream enamel Roman numeral chapter ring inscribed LE ROY & FIS, 52 NEW BOND STREET, MADE IN FRANCE, PALAIS ROYAL, PARIS and with blued steel hands within fine bright-cut engraved and pierced bird inhabited foliate strapwork rectangular mask with angled fillet outer border, the frosted gilt brass bevel-glazed anglaise riche case with spiral reeded baton to the hinged carrying handle over thick top glass, complex moulded cornice and fluted frieze, the angles with fluted three-quarter columns incorporating copper finished Corinthian capitals and the sides with fine bird inhabited foliate pierved and engraved blind frets set behind bevelled glasses, the rear with further conforming infill centred with a Classical urn to the back door, on generous cavetto moulded skirt base incorporating shallow block feet, the underside with Silence/Sonnerie selection switch, 18cm (7ins) high excluding handle. Provenance: The beneficiary of the Estate of a private collector, East Midlands. The firm of 'Le Roy and Fils' can be traced back to 1785 when the business was founded by Basille Charles Le Roy at 60 Galerie de Pierre, Palais Royal, Paris. During the Revolutionary years the firm relocated to 88 Rue de L'Egalite before finally settling at Galerie Montpensier, 13 and 15 Palais Royal. In 1828 Basille Charles died leaving the business to his son, Charles-Louis, who continued producing clocks signed 'Le Roy & Fils' until 1845 when the firm was sold to his former employee Casimir Halley Desfontaines; who in turn was succeeded by his son M. George Halley Desfontaines in 1883. In 1888 M. George Halley died leaving the business to his brother Jules Halley who then took-in as a partner Louis Leroy (apparently no relation to the founders of the firm). In 1899 the firm left Palais Royal and moved to Boulevard de La Madeleine where it continued trading in the hands of various successors until well into the 20th century. The fine quality pierced and engraved gilt brass panels of the current lot coupled with the robust anglaise riche design result in clock very much geared to the English taste with its overall feel and quality reminiscent of examples originating from the Leading London workshops.Condition Report: The movement appears complete and all original with no visible evidence of alteration or significant replacements. The going train is currently not running however the mainspring appears sound and the escapement undamaged hence probably just requires a service (oil has probably dried/out and become a little sticky). The strike train is operating as it should including the repeat button and silence lever to underside. The alarm is currently not tripping but the barrel will wind; the setting dial to the backplate also has some very light hairline cracks to the enamel.The dial is in fine condition with no visible damage or restoration. The case is also in fine condition with no apparent wear to the gilding no visible chips to the glass, blemishes are very much limited to a few tiny light surface bruises.Clock has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A fine engraved gilt brass oval grande-sonnerie striking calendar carriage clock with push-button repeat and alarmDrocourt, Paris for retail by Tiffany and Company, third quarter of the 19th centuryThe eight-day two train movement ting-tang striking the quarters on a graduated pair of gongs and sounding the hour every quarter hour on the larger of the two, with silvered platform lever escapement, alarm sounding on the smaller gong and stamped with serial number 16444 to the lower left hand corner of the backplate beneath stamped oval DC trademark for Drocourt, the dial with fine rococo scroll engraved rectangular mask enclosing an inset white enamel Roman numeral hour disc indistinctly inscribed ..FFANY &..., PARIS to centre and with blued steel moon hands over conforming alarm setting dial flanked by further day-of-the-week and date-of-the-month subsidiaries to lower margin, the substantial engraved satin gilt oval case with hinged arched carrying handle over fine rococo scroll border engraved top and repeating hatched panel decorated top mouldings, the front and sides with thick curved bevel glass panels set into border-engraved frames and the rear with conforming pin-hinged door, on ogee profile skirt base adorned with bands of repeating leaves over linked cartouche panels on a matted ground, the underside with STRIKING/SILENT/FULL STRIKING selection lever, 15cm (6ins) high excluding handle. Provenance: The beneficiary of the Estate of a private collector, East Midlands. Pierre Drocourt is recorded in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development with further additions and corrections from research undertaken by Leigh Extence (available online) as born in 1819 and setting up in business as a clockmaker in Paris in 1853. He initially worked from Rue Limoges (later called 28 Rue Debelleyme after the rationalisation and merger of Streets in 1865), Paris and was succeeded by his son, Alfred (born 1847), in 1872. The blancs roulants, rough movements, were made in Saint-Nicolas-d'Aliermont, a town outside Dieppe, where Drocourt had workshops until their sale in 1904, being premises purchased from Holingue frères in 1875 who had previously supplied Drocourt. The firm was awarded numerous international exhibition medals and mentions including Silver in Paris 1878 and Gold in 1889.The current lot is a particularly fine example of Drocourt's work having both grande-sonnerie striking and calendar work, which, coupled with being housed in a fine engraved oval case, befits a clock destined to be retailed by Tiffany.Condition Report: The movement is in clean condition with no visible signs of alteration or significant replacements. The clock is running and the quarter and hour strike will operate correctly when the repeat button is pressed but not during normal running where it only seems to currently operate grande-sonnerie on the hour and half-hour. The calendar is operational however the date-of-the-month hand appears loose on its arbor so will not advance with it; the calendar also advances at 6am. The alarm mechanism is operational however is six hours out of sync with the hand. From this the movement would appear to be in sound condition but requires relatively minor adjustment to allow all functions to operate correctly. The dial has a slight scuff/blemish to the centre (only visible on close examination hence not disfiguring in anyway) and the retail signature is rubbed otherwise is in fine condition with no other visible faults. The case is in fine condition with no apparent wear/discolouration to the gilt finish or chips to the glasses.Clock is complete with a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A GOOD CHINESE QIANLONG / QIANLONG STYLE PORCELAIN WALL HANGING VASE, the body with turquoise splash with gilding, the main panel depicting birds amongst native flora, the upper section with Chinese calligraphy, the reverse with hanging groove and turquoise glaze, the base with a four character iron red qianlong mark, 20.5cm high x 11.4cm wide.
A GOOD JAPANESE MEIJI PERIOD SILVER & MIXED METAL LACQUER BOX, the silver bound box with an inset top panel inlaid using mixed metal to depict two mandarin ducks amongst flora, the panel is artist signed and possibly reads " kantei", the interior of the box formed from lacquer, the base stamped for silver and with a makers mark, 4.5cm high x 14cm wide x 10cm deep.
AN AESTHETIC MOVEMENT FRETWORK MURAL CUPBOARD, DECORATED WITH FLOWERS AND RISING SUN, 40CM L, C1880 Lacking shoot and two leaves from door panel, small repair to gallery, loss of petals and the central section below the central door (presumed the same as on either side) but in otherwise good original and unrestored condition. Unusual and attractive
AN ANTIQUARIAN TASTE CARVED OAK LIVERY CUPBOARD, 17TH C AND LATER, THE CENTRE PANEL AND THOSE TO THE DOORS INLAID IN BOG OAK AND LIGHTER WOODS WITH BIRDS IN BRANCHES AND FOLIAGE DIVIDED BY TERM FIGURES AND FLANKED BY CUP AND COVER UPRIGHTS, THE LOWER PART ENCLOSED BY TWO THREE PANEL DOORS ON STRAIGHT OR SCROLLED STILES, THE SIDES PLAIN OR RAISED AND FIELDED PANELS, 177CM H; 63 X 187CM Encrusted with old dust and grime, one side faded and dry, in local private ownership for many decades and unrestored. Shrinkage crack to side panels
2 x Matchbox 1 x Moko Lesney And 1 x Lesney Diecast #2 (A+B) Muir Hill site dumper 2b in a type c box with grey plastic wheel near mint tiny box rub around the axle 2a in a type B box model early version with panel pin nail virually mint tiny paint chips on shovel and man has box rub box missing one end flap
An unusual and substantial mid-18th century oak bureau bookcase/cabinet, outswept cornice above a pair of raised and fielded panel doors enclosing an arrangement of shelves, the base with a fall front enclosing pigeonholes, secret compartments and a small door above six short drawers, bracket feet, 209cm high
Loading...-
360412 item(s)/page